Fabrics Resources, and Other Things
Some of you found me when I introduced myself in another section of the Forum. I am a beginner, basically never having used a sewing machine, with the exception of a friend letting me have a little fun on theirs. So I have no real experience with anything other than hand sewing.
I went to Wally World today to look at fabrics that I might like. Big mistake! 40 mile round trip to find they were basically sold out of fabric, thread, and other things needed for sewing machines and quilting. This Corona virus scare has got a lot of people stocking up for the duration of the stay at home mandate.
So I am without fabric. My machine is supposed to arrive tomorrow. I just hope the machine functions, as it is a refurbished unit.
What I would like to ask is, are there good sources for fabrics that won't ruin your bank account.
I also haven't a clue about the thick cotton layer that goes between the front and the back layers. How thick is the material supposed to be, and where can you purchase it?
In my introduction, someone mentioned the basic colour thread required. I think it was white and grey, but not sure. Any help, on colours I should stock up on.
I think I found a source for extra bobbins on Amazon. I am figuring I should get 20 of them, so I have at least two coloured threads on bobbins stocked. Not sure that's enough.
What do you think about the bobbin and spools of threads packages on Amazon. Are they worth the cost?, or should I just go out and purchase the individual colours needed.
As for thread, what size thread should I purchase for the assembly of the little bits and pieces of fabrics, and what sized thread should I purchase when I get to putting the three layers of the quilt together.
I also am confused on sewing machine needles. There seems to be hundreds of types and sizes and lengths. How did any of you ever wade through this quagmire?
I guess, at age 70, I am starting a bit late in life, but I finally realized I am not able to do what I did when I was young, like sports, other than walking, or camping, and other things like that. So I needed to choose something a bit more appropriate for my new physical status, especially after open heart surgery, cancer surgery, and a myriad of other zipper jobs.
Anyway, life has never been boring with me, and I would like to make the excitement a bit more palatable, and quilting seems to be about the right fit.
BTW, I will just be making lap quilts for the local seniors at the Senior Center. Some of them live on a shoestring budget, and are not as fortunate as I when It comes to being able to afford some things. I figured I would try to help out those seniors when it comes to Wintertime here in the high desert.